Zidane optimistic ahead of Clasico test

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane was putting on an optimistic face ahead of his first 'Clasico' against traditional rivals, FC Barcelona in charge of the club.

Zidane has faced Barca plenty of times as a player, but this is the first time he has been in the dugout for such a big game.

"We want to try and win all of our games and we have prepared for it well all week even though we had players away on international duty. There are three points up for grabs and we have to do everything possible to win them," he said.

Zidane said he was optimistic in the wake of the 4-0 win at home to Sevilla a fortnight ago.

"We are in good form and we will try and play our game. It is obvious it is an important game that people want to see and I want to see my team play as they have done of late," said the Real Madrid coach.

Real Madrid lost the first meeting between the two sides 4-0 in the Santiago Bernabeu, but Zidane said he had not spoken to his players about revenge for that defeat.

"It is another game tomorrow, they are all different and this is a game that we have to win and which we want to win," he commented.

Zidane was unwilling to give away any hints about his starting 11 on Saturday, but confirmed that central defender Rafael Varene will miss out after picking up an injury on international duty.

"We are not exactly sure what his problem is, but he had a scan and he has a problem and so he won't be with us," explained the Madrid coach, who ended up by highlighting just how demanding the club could be.

"The big thing is to carry on as we have been doing and carry on like that. Something positive is going to happen," he assured. Endit